Churchill Theatre Bromley
The Churchill Theatre first opened its doors by HRH The Prince of Wales on 19 July 1977. Situated in Bromley, south east London, the theatre was built by the London Borough of Bromley and quickly developed a reputation for being a leading producing theatre. Theatre-goers can enjoy a range of varied productions, including those created by the theatre and touring stage shows.
Today, the theatre is run on a contract, which is held by the HQ Theatres & Hospitality. Churchill is a commercial success primarily because it serves as both a producing and receiving house.
This repertory theatre was built in the European opera house style. It features a large main stage as well as sub-stage workshops. Because the theatre was built on a hill, it cleverly masks the number and size of its lower levels. From the outside, Churchill appears much smaller than it really is.
The theatre was carefully implemented into the central library complex, which overlooks the Library Gardens and the Church House Gardens. The theatre’s auditorium and main stage are below ground level and accessible via stairs through the foyer.
Theatre Productions
A number of the productions at Churchill Theatre are created by the theatre, but Churchill also hosts local amateur companies as well. Many of the productions transfer to the West End, while others begin touring nationally after leaving the theatre.
Some of the theatre’s most well-known productions include:
- This is Elvis
- Heroes
- Strangers on a Train
- Stuart Little
- Dreamboats and Petticoats
- Jekyll & Hide The Musical
Many stars have graced the Churchill stage, including David Essex, Joan Collins, Art Malik and Rula Lenska.
With such a wide range of productions, catching a show at Churchill is an excellent way to spend an evening. In addition to the show, you can also take advantage of the theatre’s many amenities and facilities. Inside of the theatre, you will find bars and refreshment kiosks. There are also a number of restaurants, bars, cafes and hotels conveniently located nearby.
Theatre Facilities and Amenities
Churchill Theatre is a comfortable auditorium with seating for up to 785 people. The theatre is fully air-conditioned and patrons enjoy a number of facilities, including bars, refreshment kiosks and foyers.
The theatre has also partnered with local restaurants to offer meal deals to ticket holders. These deals offer value dining options at one of the many nearby restaurants – all within walking distance of the theatre.
Nearby Restaurants & Bars
There are a number of restaurants within walking distance of the theatre, including:
- ASK Italian: A stylish, modern Italian restaurant featuring an extensive wine list and a great selection of Italian beers and sparkling wines.
- Ferrari’s: An Italian restaurant, café and bar. Home to excellent Italian chefs, this restaurant is a hotspot for theatre-goers.
- Ed’s: An independent steakhouse famous for its rare-breed, 28-day aged beef. Ingredients are locally-sourced and of the highest quality.
- Dizzy’s Diner: If you’re in the mood for great food, entertainment and cocktails, look no further than Dizzy’s Diner. The diner is famous for its American-style, wholesome food and extensive cocktail menu.
Nearby Hotels
- Sundridge Park Manor
- Travelodge London Bromley
- Tamasha Hotel
- Best Western Bromley Court
Venue Hire
The facilities at Churchill Theatre make it an excellent venue to host corporate functions, conferences, meetings, social events, training sessions and even birthday parties.
The theatre’s main auditorium can house up to 781 guests and provides access to state-of-the-art sound, lighting and backstage equipment.
Churchill is also home to two fully licensed bars, one which can accommodate 60 guests and the other 250. The theatre’s bars are often used to host pre and post show parties.
Two multi-purpose, air conditioned function rooms are also available for hire: the Studio and the HG Wells Suite. The Studio can accommodate up to 100 people, while the HG Well Suite is ideal for meetings or small gatherings.
Churchill Theatre also hosts birthday parties where guests can enjoy a fun drama or dance workshop.
Creative Learning
Churchill Theatre offers a range of classes for people of all ages who are interested in theatre. Students have the unique opportunity to perform on the theatre’s main stage. At this point in time, Churchill offers:
- Work experience programmes and events for young individuals who have a desire to work in Churchill Theatre.
- Page to Stage workshops in the theatre diary for select shows.
- Extended programmes and workshops for community groups and schools. Backstage tours are also available.
A few of the many creative learning classes offered include:
- Singing Class for Adults
- Young Company 1 and 2
- Young Drama 1, 2 and 3
- Slo-Mo – Dance Classes for 50+
- Adult Tap
- Adult Drama & Creative Writing
Getting to the Theatre
Situated on High Street in Bromley, Churchill Theatre is easily accessible via train or bus.
- Train: Bromley North (London Bridge, London Charing Cross), Bromley South (London Victoria)
- Bus: Bromley Town Centre routes
You can find the address here, get contact details here and take a look at the seating plan here.